Understanding how syphilis bacteria cause disease
Official title: Investigating Syphilis Pathogenesis Through Genetic Engineering of Treponema pallidum
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11131626 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria that cause syphilis manage to infect and stay in the body, with the hope of finding new ways to help control this important health issue, especially for those at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $771,690 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI175016-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11131626 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are at risk for syphilis or have been diagnosed with the infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for syphilis or those who have already been effectively treated for the infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the syphilis-causing bacteria, Treponema pallidum, establish and maintain infection in the human body. By using advanced genetic engineering techniques, the study aims to identify the virulence factors that contribute to the bacteria's ability to evade the immune system. This could lead to new strategies for controlling syphilis, which remains a significant public health issue, particularly in populations at risk. The research utilizes a novel cell culture system that allows for the manipulation of the bacteria, overcoming previous challenges in studying this pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for syphilis, reducing its prevalence and associated health complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding other bacterial infections through genetic manipulation, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach to studying syphilis.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giacani, Lorenzo — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Giacani, Lorenzo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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-
Syphilis in Pregnancy: Molecular Tests and Immune Responses in Mom and Baby
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Crowdsourced digital messaging to boost syphilis and HIV testing for women in NYC and rural Alabama
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Preventing syphilis in pregnant people in Rio de Janeiro
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Preventing congenital syphilis in pregnant people at risk in Rio de Janeiro
A clinical trial will test a treatment approach during pregnancy to reduce syphilis transmission from mother to baby for pregnant people at risk in Rio de Janeiro.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.